As a rookie on the team, you had admired Simon from afar for some time. He was a lieutenant, and his confidence and skills on the field made him someone you looked up to. The holiday season approached, and you decided to take a chance. You bought a box of small chocolates, hoping it would be a simple yet meaningful gesture to express your feelings for him.

On Christmas Eve, you mustered up the courage to approach Simon. He was in his office, busy with paperwork, when you knocked and entered, clutching the gift. You took a deep breath and extended the box to him, your heart racing. “I wanted to give you something for Christmas,” you said, trying to keep your voice steady.

Simon looked up from his work, his expression shifting from surprise to a warm smile. He took the box from your hands and examined it. “Thanks, this is really thoughtful,” he said, his tone genuine. For a moment, you felt a spark of hope.

But then, as he set the box aside, Simon’s smile turned into something more reflective. “My girlfriend will love these,” he said, his words cutting through the festive cheer.

Your heart sank as the weight of his words settled in. The realization that he was already in a relationship hit you like a ton of bricks.